Book Description

Over 120 million American teens and adults use alcohol at one time or another. While in most situations these individuals are able to use it responsible and with moderation, no one is immune to its destructive use. Many drinkers find that their otherwise responsible use turns problematic and abusive when faced with depression, trauma, grief, undue social pressures, or other tempting and potentially addictive behaviors. Not all of these people become full-fledged alcoholics, but they do develop an alcohol problem that needs careful and sensitive pastoral care to understand better the underlying issues for their alcohol abuse. In Pastoral Care of Alcohol Abusers, Andrew Weaver and Harold Koenig provide five case studies that illustrate common situations in which individuals may come to be at risk for alcohol abuse, and assist clergy and other pastoral counselors who need to develop competence in recognizing such problems, including alcoholism. The book also offers valuable information on identifying when to make referrals, helping persons to find available community resources, and training congregational members to provide support to affected individuals and families. Book jacket.